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2017 Canada Summer Games announce Relay Route

The 2017 Canada Summer Games Host Society and Co-Hosts announced the Manitoba Hydro Torch Relay route and the torchbearer selection process.

In keeping with Canada Games tradition, the relay begins on June 6 with the lighting of the Roly McLenahan Torch at the Centennial Flame on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

“This highly symbolic starting point connects the nation’s capital to the provinces and territories that will be sending 4,000 athletes and coaches to compete in the 50th anniversary of the Canada Games and is a wonderful way to kick off The Hottest Summer in Half a Century,” remarked Jeff Hnatiuk, President and CEO, 2017 Canada Games Host Society. “We are proudly celebrating sport, community and culture across every corner of the province and thank Manitoba Hydro for helping to make it possible.”

“The Canada Summer Games torch will visit communities across Manitoba kicking off in Steinbach on June 23 and arriving in Winnipeg’s downtown on July 26 in a special celebration,” Manitoba Hydro President and CEO Kelvin Shepherd said. “The route was chosen to reflect the diversity of the province and to include as many Manitobans as possible to participate in this national event and make it a great success. Manitoba Hydro is proud to is demonstrate our commitment to the communities we serve, and to the spirit of the Canada Summer Games. The torch relay provides an opportunity for us all to get involved.”

“I can already picture Canadians of all ages coming together to witness the Roly McLenahan Torch being carried down their streets with pride,” said the Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities. “I hope young Canadians will be inspired to get involved in sports in their communities, with the hope of one day representing their province at future Canada Games. The torch relay will remain a part of Canada’s history long after the Games. Our Government is proud to support the 2017 Canada Summer Games in Winnipeg and the many activities that will make the Games shine bright during the year-long Canada 150 celebrations.”

This project has been made possible in part by the Government of Canada.

“Manitobans have several opportunities to be a part of the 2017 Canada Summer Games as athletes, spectators, performers and volunteers. The torch relay provides another exciting chance for people living in communities around the province to get involved,” said Rochelle Squires, Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage. “The games and celebrations surrounding them will create lifelong memories, not only for people in the host city of Winnipeg but for those all along the relay route.”

The torch will journey over 3,500 kms during the course of the relay through Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario. Ten to twenty torchbearers in each rural community and 50 torchbearers in Winnipeg will each carry the torch in 200 metre segments.

“Winnipeg is proud to participate in the Manitoba Hydro Torch Relay to kick off the Canada Summer Games in our city this July,” said Mayor Brian Bowman. “When the torch arrives in Winnipeg, we will be two days out from the start of the Games, and it’s a great way to ramp up excitement and welcome the athletes, coaches, and visitors from all over the country to our great city. The relay is a wonderful celebration of community and diversity, and I can’t wait to watch the final leg here in Winnipeg, followed by a great summer of athleticism and spirit!”